At Trinity College, we are deeply committed to integrating First Nations culture and perspectives into the fabric of our community. Our ongoing efforts aim to create a culturally safe environment where our First Nations students and their families can take pride in their heritage and identity. Here are some of the recent initiatives that have brought us closer to this goal.
2023: Carving a Legacy
In 2023, we celebrated a significant milestone by carving our first shield trees on site. These trees are more than just symbols; they are living representations of our respect and acknowledgment of First Nations culture. The first College shield tree stands proudly in front of our Library, while the second is located on the South School, both serving as constant reminders of our commitment to cultural inclusivity.
2024: A Year of Reconciliation and Celebration
This year, we hosted our first local Reconciliation Breakfast, bringing together First Nations students, student leadership teams, and teachers from across the College. By partnering with Reconciliation SA, we were able to share the state’s breakfast event and feature a powerful message from Jason in a short video. This event was a significant step in fostering a spirit of reconciliation, and we are excited to make it an annual tradition, growing and enhancing it each year.
During National Reconciliation Week (NRW), Trinity College took part in a sporting day filled with football games with the Tjindu Football Academy. This event was more than just a series of matches; it was a gathering of students united in the spirit of reconciliation. Our Year 10 boys had the opportunity to learn from playing against extremely talented opponents, while the girls’ teams enjoyed the experience of playing on our largest oval, Waldeck. The positive energy and camaraderie of the day were palpable, and plans are already underway to make next year’s event even better.
NAIDOC Week was another highlight, with students across all our schools actively participating in celebrations. The engagement and enthusiasm were evident, and we are already planning for an even bigger celebration in 2025.
One of the standout events this year was our first Nunga Screen showing. We were thrilled to host this event at our new Marnkutyi Parirna Theatre, a space deeply connected to Kaurna culture in both its name and architectural design. The screening brought together students from all our schools to experience this cultural showcase in a setting that honours the heritage it represents.
Roseworthy School: A New Chapter with Deep Cultural Roots
The opening of our newest School at Roseworthy marked another significant step in our cultural journey. The school’s deep connection to Kaurna culture is evident in every aspect of the campus, providing students with a daily immersion in this rich heritage. We were honoured to have Uncle Mickey O’Brien lead the official opening with a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony, an experience that left a lasting impression on our entire school community.
Artistic Collaborations and Cultural Expressions
At our Trinity Innovation and Creativity School (TICS), we have collaborated with artist Caitlyn Davies-Plummer to create meaningful cultural expressions. Year 5 students from our Blakeview school worked closely with Caitlyn to design pieces that were then brought to life using a laser cutter. This hands-on project not only taught the students about art and technology but also deepened their connection to First Nations culture.
Our Senior School has also seen remarkable contributions from our prefect teams over the past few years. These teams have added First Nations student artwork to the school environment, with this year’s prefects taking it a step further. They worked with Caitlyn Davies-Plummer to create a stunning piece of art that represents their educational journey. The final design has been proudly incorporated into their senior school jumper, inspiring next year’s Year 12 students to consider how they can continue this tradition of cultural expression in their designs.
Cultural Immersion
Over the past two years, a few of our students have had the privilege of participating in two transformative trips to Oak Valley, the largest Aboriginal community on the Maralinga Tjarutja lands in north-western South Australia. These experiences have left a profound impact on everyone involved, fostering a deep connection to Aboriginal culture and traditions.
We are excited to announce that a third trip is planned for late September this year, specifically designed for our Year 9, 10, and 11 students. This journey offers a unique opportunity to engage with Aboriginal elders, rangers, community members, and students, immersing themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the region.
In October, 16 teachers from our College will participate in a cultural immersion at Iga Warta in the northern Flinders Ranges. This experience will deepen their understanding of Aboriginal culture, history, and perspectives by engaging with Adnyamathanha elders and community members.
Iga Warta, meaning "the place of the native orange tree," offers a unique opportunity for our educators to connect with the traditions and knowledge of the local community. The insights gained will enhance our curriculum and support our commitment to a culturally inclusive learning environment.
Looking Ahead
As we look to the future, we remain dedicated to fostering a culturally safe and inclusive environment at our College. The initiatives we have undertaken are just the beginning, and we are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. Together, we will continue to honour and celebrate First Nations culture, ensuring that our College is a place where all students can thrive and take pride in who they are.
Written by Dale Giles, Cultural Liaison Leader, Trinity College